Dortmund secures Champions League qualification with a 4-0 victory over Freiburg Borussia Dortmund sealed Champions League qualification on Sunday with an easy 4-0 win over a distracted Freiburg side in the Bundesliga.Maximilian Beier, Serhou Guirassy and Ramy Bensebaini effectively decided the result in the first half hour, before substitute Fabio Silva completed the scoring late.Dortmund ‘keeper Gregor Kobel denied Cyriaque Irié a consolation goal.With three rounds remaining, Dortmund is assured of finishing among the top four to qualify for Europe’s premier club competition.Freiburg coach Julian Schuster had made a host of changes to the team that suffered a bitter defeat against Stuttgart in the German Cup semifinals on Thursday.Freiburg next faces Sporting Braga away for the first leg of their Europa League semifinal match.Dortmund coach Niko Kovac gave Samuele Inacio his first start and the 18-year-old Italian forward made the most of it, earning ovations when he went off in the 74th minute.United States Under-17 forward Mathis Albert went on for the final minutes to make his Dortmund debut. The 16-year-old from Greenville, South Carolina, joined Dortmund’s academy in 2025 from LA Galaxy’s academy. and was part of the U.S. team at last year’s Under-17 World Cup.Another youngster, the 18-year-old midfielder Rouven Tarnutzer, had already gone on late for his Freiburg debut.Stuttgart stuttersStuttgart’s hopes of Champions League qualification were tempered in a 1-1 draw with Werder Bremen.Ermedin Demirovic canceled Jens Stage’s early goal for the visitors and just kept Stuttgart in fourth place on goal difference from Hoffenheim before they face each other for a high-stakes clash next weekend.Stuttgart and Hoffenheim were on 57 points, two ahead of Bayer Leverkusen, which still harbors its own hopes of Champions League qualification.Bremen’s point from the draw in Stuttgart moved it six points above St. Pauli in the relegation zone.Bayern Munich already sealed the title last weekend and will face Stuttgart in the German Cup final on May 23.Published on Apr 27, 2026 #Dortmund #secures #Champions #League #qualification #victory #Freiburg

Dortmund secures Champions League qualification with a 4-0 victory over Freiburg
Borussia Dortmund sealed Champions League qualification on Sunday with an easy 4-0 win over a distracted Freiburg side in the Bundesliga.
Maximilian Beier, Serhou Guirassy and Ramy Bensebaini effectively decided the result in the first half hour, before substitute Fabio Silva completed the scoring late.
Dortmund ‘keeper Gregor Kobel denied Cyriaque Irié a consolation goal.
With three rounds remaining, Dortmund is assured of finishing among the top four to qualify for Europe’s premier club competition.
Freiburg coach Julian Schuster had made a host of changes to the team that suffered a bitter defeat against Stuttgart in the German Cup semifinals on Thursday.
Freiburg next faces Sporting Braga away for the first leg of their Europa League semifinal match.
Dortmund coach Niko Kovac gave Samuele Inacio his first start and the 18-year-old Italian forward made the most of it, earning ovations when he went off in the 74th minute.
United States Under-17 forward Mathis Albert went on for the final minutes to make his Dortmund debut. The 16-year-old from Greenville, South Carolina, joined Dortmund’s academy in 2025 from LA Galaxy’s academy. and was part of the U.S. team at last year’s Under-17 World Cup.
Another youngster, the 18-year-old midfielder Rouven Tarnutzer, had already gone on late for his Freiburg debut.
Stuttgart stutters
Stuttgart’s hopes of Champions League qualification were tempered in a 1-1 draw with Werder Bremen.
Ermedin Demirovic canceled Jens Stage’s early goal for the visitors and just kept Stuttgart in fourth place on goal difference from Hoffenheim before they face each other for a high-stakes clash next weekend.
Stuttgart and Hoffenheim were on 57 points, two ahead of Bayer Leverkusen, which still harbors its own hopes of Champions League qualification.
Bremen’s point from the draw in Stuttgart moved it six points above St. Pauli in the relegation zone.
Bayern Munich already sealed the title last weekend and will face Stuttgart in the German Cup final on May 23.
Published on Apr 27, 2026
#Dortmund #secures #Champions #League #qualification #victory #Freiburg

Sports news April 27, 2026

Borussia Dortmund sealed Champions League qualification on Sunday with an easy 4-0 win over a distracted Freiburg side in the Bundesliga.

Maximilian Beier, Serhou Guirassy and Ramy Bensebaini effectively decided the result in the first half hour, before substitute Fabio Silva completed the scoring late.

Dortmund ‘keeper Gregor Kobel denied Cyriaque Irié a consolation goal.

With three rounds remaining, Dortmund is assured of finishing among the top four to qualify for Europe’s premier club competition.

Freiburg coach Julian Schuster had made a host of changes to the team that suffered a bitter defeat against Stuttgart in the German Cup semifinals on Thursday.

Freiburg next faces Sporting Braga away for the first leg of their Europa League semifinal match.

Dortmund coach Niko Kovac gave Samuele Inacio his first start and the 18-year-old Italian forward made the most of it, earning ovations when he went off in the 74th minute.

United States Under-17 forward Mathis Albert went on for the final minutes to make his Dortmund debut. The 16-year-old from Greenville, South Carolina, joined Dortmund’s academy in 2025 from LA Galaxy’s academy. and was part of the U.S. team at last year’s Under-17 World Cup.

Another youngster, the 18-year-old midfielder Rouven Tarnutzer, had already gone on late for his Freiburg debut.

Stuttgart stutters

Stuttgart’s hopes of Champions League qualification were tempered in a 1-1 draw with Werder Bremen.

Ermedin Demirovic canceled Jens Stage’s early goal for the visitors and just kept Stuttgart in fourth place on goal difference from Hoffenheim before they face each other for a high-stakes clash next weekend.

Stuttgart and Hoffenheim were on 57 points, two ahead of Bayer Leverkusen, which still harbors its own hopes of Champions League qualification.

Bremen’s point from the draw in Stuttgart moved it six points above St. Pauli in the relegation zone.

Bayern Munich already sealed the title last weekend and will face Stuttgart in the German Cup final on May 23.

Published on Apr 27, 2026

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#Dortmund #secures #Champions #League #qualification #victory #Freiburg

Deadspin | MLB roundup: Chad Tracy wins managerial debut as Red Sox top O’s <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28819790.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28819790.jpg" alt="MLB: Boston Red Sox at Baltimore Orioles" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 26, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Boston Red Sox Interim Manager Chad Tracy looks on before a game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images  </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Willson Contreras hit a two-run home run and Connelly Early pitched into the seventh inning as the Boston Red Sox won in their first game after a surprising weekend managerial change, beating the host Baltimore Orioles 5-3.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>With Chad Tracy serving as interim manager after Alex Cora’s Saturday firing, Ceddanne Rafaela recorded an RBI triple and a double as the Red Sox won consecutive games for the first time since April 15 and 17. </p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Early (2-1) worked 6 2/3 innings, surrendering two runs on four hits with a season-low one walk. He struck out four.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Gunnar Henderson and Samuel Basallo, who each had two hits, smacked solo home runs for the Orioles. Henderson added a second RBI on a single. Baltimore starter Kyle Bradish (1-3) gave up three runs on four hits in five innings.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Braves 6, Phillies 2</p> </section><section id="section-6"> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>Chris Sale pitched six scoreless innings to earn the 150th victory of his career as Atlanta beat visiting Philadelphia in the rubber game of their three-game series.</p> </section><section id="section-8"> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Sale (5-1) retired the first eight batters he faced and allowed only one hit, a single to Trea Turner, two walks and a hit-by-pitch. He struck out a season-high nine batters and moved past Chuck Finley into 28th place on the career strikeouts list with 2,617. Sale also became the fourth active pitcher with 150 wins, joining Justin Verlander (266), Max Scherzer (222) and Gerrit Cole (153).</p> </section><section id="section-10"> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Atlanta became the first team to win 20 games, a milestone they didn’t reach until May 12 in their 41st game in 2025. The Phillies, who ended their 10-game losing streak on Saturday, have lost 15 of their last 18. Philadelphia right-hander Aaron Nola (1-3) allowed a season-high six runs on seven hits and three walks, striking out six.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>Rockies 3, Mets 1 (Game 1)</p> </section><section id="section-13"> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>Troy Johnston had an RBI single in the fourth inning and hit into the tie-breaking, run-scoring double play in the sixth for visiting Colorado, which beat skidding New York in the opener of a doubleheader.</p> </section><section id="section-15"> </section><section id="section-16"> <p>Jose Quintana (1-2) tossed 5 1/3 solid innings for the Rockies, who have won the first two games of the three-game set to lock up their third series win of the season. Colorado finished 43-119 last season and didn’t win its third series until July 18-20, when it took two of three from the Minnesota Twins.</p> </section><section id="section-17"> </section><section id="section-18"> <p>Jake McCarthy added an insurance RBI single in the seventh for Colorado. Tyrone Taylor homered in the fifth for the Mets.</p> </section><section id="section-19"> <p>Rockies 3, Mets 0 (Game 2)</p> </section><section id="section-20"> </section><section id="section-21"> <p>Chase Dollander threw seven scoreless innings in the longest outing of his career as visiting Colorado completed a doubleheader sweep of sinking New York. Four Rockies pitchers combined on a four-hitter in a 3-1 win in the opener.</p> </section><section id="section-22"> </section><section id="section-23"> <p>Troy Johnston had an RBI single in the second inning of the nightcap and Hunter Goodman hit a two-run homer one inning later for Colorado, which swept a series from the Mets in New York for the first time since 2018 to improve to 13-16.</p> </section><section id="section-24"> </section><section id="section-25"> <p>New York has lost 15 of 17 — its worst 17-game stretch since a 2-15 skid from Aug. 28 through Sept, 13, 2004. Dollander (3-2), who made his first start of the season after six long relief outings, allowed five hits and two walks while striking out seven over a career-high 105 pitches.</p> </section><section id="section-26"> <p>Blue Jays 4, Guardians 2</p> </section><section id="section-27"> </section><section id="section-28"> <p>Jesus Sanchez homered and drove in three runs to help Toronto earn a victory over visiting Cleveland.</p> </section><section id="section-29"> </section><section id="section-30"> <p>Vladimir Guerrero had three hits and an RBI for the Blue Jays, who took two of three from Cleveland. Toronto starter Patrick Corbin went 4 2/3 innings, allowing two runs on six hits, striking out four and walking two.</p> </section><section id="section-31"> </section><section id="section-32"> <p>Slade Cecconi (0-4) saw his winless start to the season prolonged, yielding four runs on six hits across 5 2/3 innings. He struck out five and walked one for Cleveland, which has dropped three of its last four games. Angel Martinez tallied two hits and an RBI in the loss.</p> </section><section id="section-33"> <p>Rays 4, Twins 2</p> </section><section id="section-34"> </section><section id="section-35"> <p>Yandy Diaz belted a two-run homer to highlight a four-run third inning, helping Tampa Bay complete a three-game series sweep of Minnesota in St. Petersburg, Fla.</p> </section><section id="section-36"> </section><section id="section-37"> <p>Chandler Simpson went 3-for-4 with a stolen base and a run, and Jonathan Aranda joined Diaz with two RBIs to pace the Rays to their fourth straight victory. Jesse Scholtens (2-1), who relieved opener Griffin Jax with one out in the third, allowed two runs on three hits over 4 1/3 innings.</p> </section><section id="section-38"> </section><section id="section-39"> <p>Brooks Lee hit a two-run homer for the Twins, who lost their fifth straight game and fell to 1-9 over the last 10. Simeon Woods Richardson (0-4) suffered the loss, allowing four runs on eight hits in 4 1/3 innings.</p> </section><section id="section-40"> <p>Tigers 8, Reds 3</p> </section><section id="section-41"> <p>Hao-Yu Lee belted a pinch-hit, go-ahead two-run homer and Spencer Torkelson had three hits and homered in his franchise-tying fifth straight game as visiting Detroit rallied for a win over Cincinnati.</p> </section><section id="section-42"> <p>Kerry Carpenter doubled and tripled, while Gleyber Torres added three hits, including a two-run homer for the Tigers. Detroit pitcher Keider Montero was charged with three runs on five hits, striking out five and walking two over five innings, while lefty reliever Brant Hurter (3-0) pitched a perfect sixth to earn the win.</p> </section><section id="section-43"> <p>Nathaniel Lowe and JJ Bleday belted solo homers for Cincinnati, which fell for just the second time in nine games. Starter Rhett Lowder settled down after a two-run first inning, and allowed just the two runs on six hits, striking out seven and walking one.</p> </section><section id="section-44"> <p>Nationals 2, White Sox 1 (10 innings)</p> </section><section id="section-45"> </section><br/><section id="section-46"> <p>Jose Tena hit a pinch-hit solo home run in the 10th inning after CJ Abrams provided a go-ahead sacrifice fly as Washington edged host Chicago.</p> </section> <section id="section-47"> </section><section id="section-48"> <p>Both pitching staffs allowed just four hits. Paxton Schultz worked around Tristan Peters’ RBI single in the bottom of the 10th for his first save. Nationals left-hander Foster Griffin delivered his second consecutive quality start, scattering two hits in seven shutout innings. Griffin walked two and struck out a career-high eight. Richard Lovelady (1-1) pitched a scoreless ninth for the victory. </p> </section><section id="section-49"> </section><section id="section-50"> <p>Chicago righty Sean Burke shined, as well, limiting Washington to three hits in 7 1/3 innings with zero walks and four strikeouts. Seranthony Dominguez (1-3) took the loss.</p> </section><section id="section-51"> <p>Astros 7, Yankees 4</p> </section><section id="section-52"> <p>Spencer Arrighetti worked seven strong innings, Christian Walker produced a three-hit game with a home run and Houston salvaged the finale of a three-game series against visiting New York.</p> </section><section id="section-53"> <p>Arrighetti (3-0), who opened the season with Triple-A Sugar Land, allowed three hits, walked one and posted eight strikeouts on 96 pitches, 64 for strikes. Walker finished 3-for-4 with four RBIs while Isaac Paredes went 2-for-4 with a homer, three runs and three RBIs. </p> </section><section id="section-54"> <p>Paul Goldschmidt doubled twice and scored for the Yankees, who rallied for three runs with two outs in the ninth but had their eight-game winning streak snapped. Luis Gil (1-2) dished five hits through four innings, and allowed six runs. </p> </section><section id="section-55"> <p>Mariners 3, Cardinals 2</p> </section><section id="section-56"> <p>Pinch hitter Rob Refsnyder homered with one out in the ninth inning to break a tie as Seattle defeated host St. Louis.</p> </section><section id="section-57"> <p>Cal Raleigh also homered for the Mariners, who swept the three-game interleague set. Refsnyder deposited a 3-2 sweeper from reliever JoJo Romero (0-1) into the Mariners’ bullpen in left field. Eduard Bazardo (1-1) earned the victory and Jose A. Ferrer worked a 1-2-3 ninth for his first save of the season.</p> </section><section id="section-58"> <p>JJ Wetherholt and Nathan Church went deep for the Cardinals, who have lost four in a row. St. Louis starter Michael McGreevy went six innings, and gave up one run on five hits, with no walks and a season-high six strikeouts.</p> </section><section id="section-59"> <p>Brewers 5, Pirates 0</p> </section><section id="section-60"> </section><section id="section-61"> <p>Kyle Harrison tossed six innings of one-hit ball with a career-high 12 strikeouts and Milwaukee snapped a four-game skid with a victory over visiting Pittsburgh.</p> </section><section id="section-62"> </section><section id="section-63"> <p>The Brewers backed Harrison with a five-run fourth inning to avoid their first sweep against Pittsburgh since 2022 and first at home to the Pirates since a four-game series in August 2016.</p> </section><section id="section-64"> </section><section id="section-65"> <p>The only hit off Harrison (2-1) in his 101-pitch outing was a leadoff single in the second by Marcell Ozuna, who was erased on a double play. The only other runner off Harrison came on a two-out walk in the fourth.</p> </section><section id="section-66"> <p>Athletics 2, Rangers 1</p> </section><section id="section-67"> </section><section id="section-68"> <p>Carlos Cortes delivered a two-run triple in the first inning and the Athletics held on to beat Texas in the rubber match of a three-game series in Arlington, Texas.</p> </section><section id="section-69"> </section><section id="section-70"> <p>Cortes also had a pair of singles for the Athletics, while starting pitcher J.T. Ginn allowed three hits over 3 1/3 scoreless innings before exiting with right arm soreness. Joel Kuhnel, Jacob Lopez, Justin Sterner (1-2) and Hogan Harris followed Ginn before right-hander Jack Perkins pitched two scoreless innings for his second save.</p> </section><section id="section-71"> </section><section id="section-72"> <p>Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz set a franchise record by drawing a walk in his 16th consecutive game. He has also reached base safely in each of his last 22 games. Josh Jung doubled twice for the Rangers, who were out-hit 10-6 and went 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position.</p> </section><section id="section-73"> <p>Diamondbacks 12, Padres 7</p> </section><section id="section-74"> <p>Ildemaro Vargas had three hits, including a home run, and drove in four runs as Arizona overcame a six-run deficit to beat San Diego for a split of the short two-game Mexico City Series at Estadio Alfredo Harp Helu.</p> </section><section id="section-75"> <p>Tim Tawa triggered a six-run seventh inning with his first career grand slam, and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. capped it with a two-run single to give the D-Backs their first lead after having trailed 7-1. Ryne Nelson allowed six runs on seven hits in five innings, with four strikeouts and two walks. He has given up 14 runs in his last two starts over 5 1/3 innings.</p> </section><section id="section-76"> <p>Manny Machado had two home runs, Luis Campusano doubled and homered and Jackson Merrill had two hits for the Padres, who had won 13 of 15. Padres starter Michael King gave up three hits and two runs in six innings, with eight strikeouts and one walk. He fanned seven of the first nine batters he faced.</p> </section><section id="section-77"> <p>Dodgers 6, Cubs 0</p> </section><section id="section-78"> <p>Shohei Ohtani hit his first home run in 13 games and Justin Wrobleski continued his strong start to the season with six scoreless innings as Los Angeles finished off a series victory over visiting Chicago.</p> </section><section id="section-79"> <p>Miguel Rojas hit a two-run double in the first inning and Dalton Rushing had an RBI single in the sixth. Wrobleski (4-0) gave up four hits with six strikeouts, lowering his ERA to 1.50 in 30 innings over five appearances and four consecutive starts.</p> </section><section id="section-80"> <p>Shota Imanaga (2-2) gave up a season-high five runs on six hits in 5 1/3 innings with three walks and six strikeouts. Imanaga allowed more runs than his last four starts combined (three).</p> </section><section id="section-81"> <p>Royals 11, Angels 9 (10 innings)</p> </section><section id="section-82"> </section><section id="section-83"> <p>Lane Thomas hit a three-run, walk-off homer in the 10th inning, after Jac Caglianone clubbed a tying two-run shot in the ninth, and host Kansas City rallied past Los Angeles to complete a three-game series sweep.</p> </section><section id="section-84"> </section><section id="section-85"> <p>In a contest whose start was moved up roughly three hours due to predicted severe weather, Kansas City trailed 6-0 after two innings and 8-5 entering the bottom of the ninth. Bobby Witt Jr. and Isaac Collins also homered for the Royals, who are 4-1 since an eight-game skid.</p> </section><section id="section-86"> </section><section id="section-87"> <p>Losers in seven of eight, the Angels wasted no time getting to Royals starter Seth Lugo. Zach Neto opened the game with the first of his three hits, then Mike Trout sent a drive off and over the top of the left-field wall for a 2-0 lead. It was the first homer allowed this season by Lugo, who yielded seven runs and a career-high 14 hits over 6 1/3 innings on Sunday.</p> </section><section id="section-88"> <p>Giants 6, Marlins 3</p> </section><section id="section-89"> <p>Casey Schmitt hit a go-ahead home run for the second consecutive day, Landen Roupp ran his personal winning streak to four games and San Francisco closed out a winning homestand with a victory over Miami.</p> </section><section id="section-90"> <p>Jung Hoo Lee had four hits, including a triple, and scored twice for the Giants. Roupp (5-1) served up a three-run homer to Graham Pauley, his first of the season, in the second inning.</p> </section><section id="section-91"> <p>The Marlins managed just two hits, both coming in the three-run second. Liam Hicks followed Xavier Edwards’ walk with a single, after which both jogged home on Pauley’s home run. Max Meyer was pulled after five innings, having limited the Giants to just one run, which was unearned. </p> </section><br/><section id="section-92"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #MLB #roundup #Chad #Tracy #wins #managerial #debut #Red #Sox #top

Deadspin | Rob Refsnyder’s blast lifts Mariners to sweep of Cards <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28819978.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28819978.jpg" alt="MLB: Seattle Mariners at St. Louis Cardinals" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 26, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Seattle Mariners pinch hitter Rob Refsnyder (30) hits a solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals in the ninth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Puetz-Imagn Images  </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Pinch hitter Rob Refsnyder homered with one out in the ninth inning to break a tie as the Seattle Mariners defeated the host St. Louis Cardinals 3-2 on Sunday afternoon.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Cal Raleigh also homered for the Mariners, who swept the three-game interleague series.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>JJ Wetherholt and Nathan Church went deep for the Cardinals, who have lost four in a row.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Refsnyder deposited a 3-2 sweeper from Cardinals reliever JoJo Romero (0-1) into the Mariners’ bullpen in left field.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Seattle reliever Eduard Bazardo (1-1) earned the victory and Jose A. Ferrer worked a 1-2-3 ninth for his first save of the season.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Wetherholt homered leading off the bottom of the third, driving a 1-1 fastball from Mariners starter Emerson Hancock over the fence in right-center field for the game’s first run. It was the fifth homer of the season for the rookie.</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>Raleigh answered with one out in the top of the fourth off St. Louis starter Michael McGreevy, crushing a 1-1 changeup off the back wall of the Cardinals’ bullpen in right field. </p> </section><br/><section id="section-8"> <p>It was the sixth homer of the season and the fourth in the past six games for Raleigh, who led the majors with 60 last season — an MLB record for a catcher and a switch hitter.</p> </section> <section id="section-9"> <p>The Cardinals regained the lead in the sixth when Church hit a 1-1 changeup from Hancock out to right. It was the third homer in the past two games and the fifth of the season for Church.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>The Mariners manufactured a run off St. Louis reliever Matt Svanson in the seventh to tie it at 2. With two outs, Connor Joe lined a double down the left field line and scored on Cole Young’s single to right-center.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Hancock and McGreevy both made quality starts but neither factored into the decision.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>Hancock allowed two runs on seven hits over six innings, with two walks and four strikeouts.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>McGreevy also went six innings, and gave up one run on five hits, with no walks and a season-high six strikeouts.</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor didn’t play because of quad tightness.</p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Rob #Refsnyders #blast #lifts #Mariners #sweep #Cards

Paul addressed James’ free agency on his Game Over Podcast with Max Kellerman, saying “outside of one organization, maybe two. I’ve heard from every team in the entire league.” What teams is James realistically considering? It’s all on this whiteboard:

It’s fascinating to see it all laid out like this. James’ first option is the Philadelphia 76ers, where he would fit in between Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, and Joel Embiid. His next option is the Miami Heat, where he would start alongside Davion Mitchell, Andrew Wiggins, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Bam Adebayo. The Cavs are there of course, too, which would put James in a lineup with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Finally, there’s the Denver Nuggets, with Jamal Murray, Cam Johnson, Aaron Gordon, and Nikola Jokic.

Here’s a clip of Paul talking about the 76ers, and saying “everything changed” after the Jaylen Brown trade:

The Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs, and New York Knicks are also on the board. On the Knicks, Paul said: “If the Knick hadn’t won, there would be no board. He’d be going to the Knicks.”

The Warriors still feel like the frontrunner to me. Golden State’s plan was put in motion when Draymond Green opted out of his player option, and remember, Green’s agent is also Paul. It feels like LeBron would love to play with Stephen Curry, but landing Davis could be the holdup. The Wizards suddenly have a lot of power after their buy-low trade for Davis at the deadline. Washington could leverage Golden State for a bunch of future assets, or watch their LeBron dreams fade away if he doesn’t think the team can actually contend without Davis.

LeBron has indicated that happiness — not money — will be the driving factor in his decision. It feels like that means a lot of teams have a realistic shot at him even if they don’t have cap space.

Where would LeBron have the best chance to win his fifth ring? The Warriors wouldn’t rate too highly by that metric in my opinion with such an old team. I’d probably say Minnesota or Philadelphia. Maybe the Celtics even after trading Jaylen Brown?

LeBron’s decision is coming soon. It’s going to be fascinating to watch whatever team he chooses.

#Rich #Paul #reveals #LeBron #James #free #agency #finalists #whiteboard #podcast">

Rich Paul reveals LeBron James’ free agency finalists on whiteboard during podcast The NBA is hanging on The Decision 4.0 to find out where LeBron James will play for the 2026-27 season. James might turn 42 years old in December, but he still feels like a top-50 player in the world, and there are a ton of contenders who could use his services. James is believed to be choosing between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors for next season, but we now know he’s considering even more teams after his agent Rich Paul leaked a whiteboard detailing his “realistic” options.Paul addressed James’ free agency on his Game Over Podcast with Max Kellerman, saying “outside of one organization, maybe two. I’ve heard from every team in the entire league.” What teams is James realistically considering? It’s all on this whiteboard:It’s fascinating to see it all laid out like this. James’ first option is the Philadelphia 76ers, where he would fit in between Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, and Joel Embiid. His next option is the Miami Heat, where he would start alongside Davion Mitchell, Andrew Wiggins, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Bam Adebayo. The Cavs are there of course, too, which would put James in a lineup with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Finally, there’s the Denver Nuggets, with Jamal Murray, Cam Johnson, Aaron Gordon, and Nikola Jokic.Here’s a clip of Paul talking about the 76ers, and saying “everything changed” after the Jaylen Brown trade:The Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs, and New York Knicks are also on the board. On the Knicks, Paul said: “If the Knick hadn’t won, there would be no board. He’d be going to the Knicks.”The Warriors still feel like the frontrunner to me. Golden State’s plan was put in motion when Draymond Green opted out of his player option, and remember, Green’s agent is also Paul. It feels like LeBron would love to play with Stephen Curry, but landing Davis could be the holdup. The Wizards suddenly have a lot of power after their buy-low trade for Davis at the deadline. Washington could leverage Golden State for a bunch of future assets, or watch their LeBron dreams fade away if he doesn’t think the team can actually contend without Davis.LeBron has indicated that happiness — not money — will be the driving factor in his decision. It feels like that means a lot of teams have a realistic shot at him even if they don’t have cap space.Where would LeBron have the best chance to win his fifth ring? The Warriors wouldn’t rate too highly by that metric in my opinion with such an old team. I’d probably say Minnesota or Philadelphia. Maybe the Celtics even after trading Jaylen Brown?LeBron’s decision is coming soon. It’s going to be fascinating to watch whatever team he chooses. #Rich #Paul #reveals #LeBron #James #free #agency #finalists #whiteboard #podcast

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The NBA is hanging on The Decision 4.0 to find out where LeBron James will play for the 2026-27 season. James might turn 42 years old in December, but he still feels like a top-50 player in the world, and there are a ton of contenders who could use his services. James is believed to be choosing between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors for next season, but we now know he’s considering even more teams after his agent Rich Paul leaked a whiteboard detailing his “realistic” options.

Here’s a clip of Paul talking about the 76ers, and saying “everything changed” after the Jaylen Brown trade:

LeBron’s decision is coming soon. It’s going to be fascinating to watch whatever team he chooses.

#Rich #Paul #reveals #LeBron #James #free #agency #finalists #whiteboard #podcast">Rich Paul reveals LeBron James’ free agency finalists on whiteboard during podcast

The NBA is hanging on The Decision 4.0 to find out where LeBron James will play for the 2026-27 season. James might turn 42 years old in December, but he still feels like a top-50 player in the world, and there are a ton of contenders who could use his services. James is believed to be choosing between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors for next season, but we now know he’s considering even more teams after his agent Rich Paul leaked a whiteboard detailing his “realistic” options.

Here’s a clip of Paul talking about the 76ers, and saying “everything changed” after the Jaylen Brown trade:

LeBron’s decision is coming soon. It’s going to be fascinating to watch whatever team he chooses.

#Rich #Paul #reveals #LeBron #James #free #agency #finalists #whiteboard #podcast

Former Formula One world champion Damon Hill praised Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a special talent and backed him for the F1 drivers’ title this year.

“I think the favourite is Kimi because I think that he’s got the equipment. Mercedes has been the most consistent, and he’s got a points advantage, and I think that he’s still on a learning curve. So George (Russell) has got a mountain to climb, I think, to rein him in. I’m not saying he can’t do it, but I think from what I’ve seen this guy is something else. So we’ll see,” said Damon Hill ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix.

Antonelli’s teammate Russell heads into his home race after winning the previous round in Austria last weekend, only his second of the year. Hill felt it should give the local lad a much-needed boost at a time when the crowd would have heightened expectations.

“George having got a win and closed the gap to Kimi, that’s going to be a positive for him and a massive relief because it was, as he said at one point, he didn’t know what to say. He was at a loss for words given the amount of bad luck he had, but he finally got a good victory; a genuine win, he got pole position and so forth. I think that’s going to restore some of his confidence,” the 1996 F1 champion added.

ALSO READ:Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin nightmare: How F1’s super project lost its way

When asked if Russell was a bit unsettled by Antonelli hogging all the attention when he won five races on the bounce, Hill remarked that it was something a driver has to deal with, even if he had been at a place for longer.

“When a driver is in a team, they can’t consider that they are the primary concern of that team. The problem with being a racing driver in our sport is that you’re not really part of the team. For the time you’re there, you’re part of the team, but you still have to prove yourself against the other guy. So you’re in a constant battle to establish your position,” remarked Hill.

(Fans can watch the British GP exclusively on FanCode)

Published on Jul 03, 2026

#Hes #World #Champion #Damon #Hill #backs #Antonelli #win #Drivers #title">

“He’s just something else”: Former World Champion Damon Hill backs Antonelli to win F1 Drivers’ title Former Formula One world champion Damon Hill praised Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a special talent and backed him for the F1 drivers’ title this year.“I think the favourite is Kimi because I think that he’s got the equipment. Mercedes has been the most consistent, and he’s got a points advantage, and I think that he’s still on a learning curve. So George (Russell) has got a mountain to climb, I think, to rein him in. I’m not saying he can’t do it, but I think from what I’ve seen this guy is something else. So we’ll see,” said Damon Hill ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix.Antonelli’s teammate Russell heads into his home race after winning the previous round in Austria last weekend, only his second of the year. Hill felt it should give the local lad a much-needed boost at a time when the crowd would have heightened expectations.“George having got a win and closed the gap to Kimi, that’s going to be a positive for him and a massive relief because it was, as he said at one point, he didn’t know what to say. He was at a loss for words given the amount of bad luck he had, but he finally got a good victory; a genuine win, he got pole position and so forth. I think that’s going to restore some of his confidence,” the 1996 F1 champion added.ALSO READ:Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin nightmare: How F1’s super project lost its wayWhen asked if Russell was a bit unsettled by Antonelli hogging all the attention when he won five races on the bounce, Hill remarked that it was something a driver has to deal with, even if he had been at a place for longer.“When a driver is in a team, they can’t consider that they are the primary concern of that team. The problem with being a racing driver in our sport is that you’re not really part of the team. For the time you’re there, you’re part of the team, but you still have to prove yourself against the other guy. So you’re in a constant battle to establish your position,” remarked Hill.(Fans can watch the British GP exclusively on FanCode)Published on Jul 03, 2026 #Hes #World #Champion #Damon #Hill #backs #Antonelli #win #Drivers #title

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Former Formula One world champion Damon Hill praised Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a special talent and backed him for the F1 drivers’ title this year.
“I think the favourite is Kimi because I think that he’s got the equipment. Mercedes has been the most consistent, and he’s got a points advantage, and I think that he’s still on a learning curve. So George (Russell) has got a mountain to climb, I think, to rein him in. I’m not saying he can’t do it, but I think from what I’ve seen this guy is something else. So we’ll see,” said Damon Hill ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix.
Antonelli’s teammate Russell heads into his home race after winning the previous round in Austria last weekend, only his second of the year. Hill felt it should give the local lad a much-needed boost at a time when the crowd would have heightened expectations.
“George having got a win and closed the gap to Kimi, that’s going to be a positive for him and a massive relief because it was, as he said at one point, he didn’t know what to say. He was at a loss for words given the amount of bad luck he had, but he finally got a good victory; a genuine win, he got pole position and so forth. I think that’s going to restore some of his confidence,” the 1996 F1 champion added.
ALSO READ:Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin nightmare: How F1’s super project lost its way
When asked if Russell was a bit unsettled by Antonelli hogging all the attention when he won five races on the bounce, Hill remarked that it was something a driver has to deal with, even if he had been at a place for longer.
“When a driver is in a team, they can’t consider that they are the primary concern of that team. The problem with being a racing driver in our sport is that you’re not really part of the team. For the time you’re there, you’re part of the team, but you still have to prove yourself against the other guy. So you’re in a constant battle to establish your position,” remarked Hill.
(Fans can watch the British GP exclusively on FanCode)
Published on Jul 03, 2026

#Hes #World #Champion #Damon #Hill #backs #Antonelli #win #Drivers #title">“He’s just something else”: Former World Champion Damon Hill backs Antonelli to win F1 Drivers’ title

Former Formula One world champion Damon Hill praised Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a special talent and backed him for the F1 drivers’ title this year.

ALSO READ:Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin nightmare: How F1’s super project lost its way

(Fans can watch the British GP exclusively on FanCode)

Published on Jul 03, 2026

#Hes #World #Champion #Damon #Hill #backs #Antonelli #win #Drivers #title

Deadspin | Nationals’ Foster Griffin aims to continue recent success vs. Pirates Jun 22, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin (22) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin no longer has the high-velocity stuff that made him a first-round selection in the 2014 draft. Instead, the 30-year-old left-hander is having a breakout season with a seven-pitch repertoire he will deploy when the Nationals open a three-game home series against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday. A self-described “journeyman, four-A player spending time between Triple-A and the big leagues,” Griffin (8-2, 2.93 ERA) has learned to throttle back his approach and set up hitters. “For me, I am not going for a strikeout from the start of the at-bat, I am letting it develop,” Griffin said. “If I get into an 0-2, 1-2 situation and I want to go for a kill count, and go for a swing and miss, I will. As soon as I get to even or behind, though, I am not really going for a punchout. I don’t want those free passes.” On Saturday against the Baltimore Orioles, Griffin threw 112 pitches, allowing one unearned run on three hits and two walks while matching his career high with nine strikeouts. He didn’t factor into the decision as Washington earned a 4-3, 10-inning victory. Griffin went 2-0 with a 1.15 ERA in five June starts. His only career start against the Pirates came on the road on April 16, a no-decision in which he gave up four runs on eight hits with one walk and seven strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings. Nationals manager Blake Butera has quickly developed belief in Griffin. “I appreciate every time he’s on the mound,” Butera said. “We all have a ton of confidence in Foster. He pitches his tail off for us and leaves it all out there every single time.” Washington had Thursday off after winning two of three games at Boston. The Nationals cruised to a 10-2 victory over the Red Sox on Wednesday behind James Wood’s 22nd home run, a three-run shot in the seventh. Andres Chaparro added a two-run bomb and Nasim Nunez hit a solo shot, the first homers of the season for both players. The Pirates are set to counter with right-hander Mitch Keller (6-5, 4.87 ERA). After going 0-3 with an 8.25 ERA in his previous five starts, Keller earned his lone win of June on Sunday, a 9-4 home decision against the Cincinnati Reds. He allowed five hits and four runs (three earned) with one walk and four strikeouts. Keller made his second straight six-inning start, and he feels things are pointed in the right direction. “I’m starting to feel like I am getting in a little more of a rhythm,” Keller said. “Obviously, there’s still a lot more that I can clean up and just execute a little better.” In eight career starts against Washington, Keller is 1-4 with a 5.31 ERA. He lost 5-4 to the Nationals on April 14 in Pittsburgh after yielding five runs on six hits and four walks with three strikeouts in four innings. The Pirates’ offense is trending in the right direction. Rookie right fielder Esmerlyn Valdez continues to establish his place in the batting order. Pittsburgh split a four-game road series against the Philadelphia Phillies this week, and Valdez was 2-for-4 with a run and three RBIs in a 6-1 win on Thursday. Valdez homered in four consecutive games — including the series opener against the Phillies on Monday after going deep in each game of Pittsburgh’s previous three-game set against the Reds — a stretch that has highlighted his impressive start in the majors. Since his big league debut on May 22, Valdez has a .316 batting average, six homers and 15 RBIs in 19 games. “The staff plays a big role,” Valdez said. “Even when you fail, they are right by your side. They bring the energy and give you the information you need to succeed.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Nationals #Foster #Griffin #aims #continue #success #Pirates

#Deadspin #Nationals #Foster #Griffin #aims #continue #success #Pirates">

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Jun 22, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin (22) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin no longer has the high-velocity stuff that made him a first-round selection in the 2014 draft.

Instead, the 30-year-old left-hander is having a breakout season with a seven-pitch repertoire he will deploy when the Nationals open a three-game home series against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday.

A self-described “journeyman, four-A player spending time between Triple-A and the big leagues,” Griffin (8-2, 2.93 ERA) has learned to throttle back his approach and set up hitters.

“For me, I am not going for a strikeout from the start of the at-bat, I am letting it develop,” Griffin said. “If I get into an 0-2, 1-2 situation and I want to go for a kill count, and go for a swing and miss, I will. As soon as I get to even or behind, though, I am not really going for a punchout. I don’t want those free passes.”

On Saturday against the Baltimore Orioles, Griffin threw 112 pitches, allowing one unearned run on three hits and two walks while matching his career high with nine strikeouts. He didn’t factor into the decision as Washington earned a 4-3, 10-inning victory.

Griffin went 2-0 with a 1.15 ERA in five June starts. His only career start against the Pirates came on the road on April 16, a no-decision in which he gave up four runs on eight hits with one walk and seven strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings.

Nationals manager Blake Butera has quickly developed belief in Griffin.

“I appreciate every time he’s on the mound,” Butera said. “We all have a ton of confidence in Foster. He pitches his tail off for us and leaves it all out there every single time.”

Washington had Thursday off after winning two of three games at Boston. The Nationals cruised to a 10-2 victory over the Red Sox on Wednesday behind James Wood’s 22nd home run, a three-run shot in the seventh. Andres Chaparro added a two-run bomb and Nasim Nunez hit a solo shot, the first homers of the season for both players.

The Pirates are set to counter with right-hander Mitch Keller (6-5, 4.87 ERA). After going 0-3 with an 8.25 ERA in his previous five starts, Keller earned his lone win of June on Sunday, a 9-4 home decision against the Cincinnati Reds. He allowed five hits and four runs (three earned) with one walk and four strikeouts.

Keller made his second straight six-inning start, and he feels things are pointed in the right direction.

“I’m starting to feel like I am getting in a little more of a rhythm,” Keller said. “Obviously, there’s still a lot more that I can clean up and just execute a little better.”

In eight career starts against Washington, Keller is 1-4 with a 5.31 ERA. He lost 5-4 to the Nationals on April 14 in Pittsburgh after yielding five runs on six hits and four walks with three strikeouts in four innings.

The Pirates’ offense is trending in the right direction. Rookie right fielder Esmerlyn Valdez continues to establish his place in the batting order.

Pittsburgh split a four-game road series against the Philadelphia Phillies this week, and Valdez was 2-for-4 with a run and three RBIs in a 6-1 win on Thursday.

Valdez homered in four consecutive games — including the series opener against the Phillies on Monday after going deep in each game of Pittsburgh’s previous three-game set against the Reds — a stretch that has highlighted his impressive start in the majors. Since his big league debut on May 22, Valdez has a .316 batting average, six homers and 15 RBIs in 19 games.

“The staff plays a big role,” Valdez said. “Even when you fail, they are right by your side. They bring the energy and give you the information you need to succeed.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Nationals #Foster #Griffin #aims #continue #success #Pirates">Deadspin | Nationals’ Foster Griffin aims to continue recent success vs. Pirates

Jun 22, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin (22) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Washington Nationals starting pitcher Foster Griffin no longer has the high-velocity stuff that made him a first-round selection in the 2014 draft.

Instead, the 30-year-old left-hander is having a breakout season with a seven-pitch repertoire he will deploy when the Nationals open a three-game home series against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday.

A self-described “journeyman, four-A player spending time between Triple-A and the big leagues,” Griffin (8-2, 2.93 ERA) has learned to throttle back his approach and set up hitters.

“For me, I am not going for a strikeout from the start of the at-bat, I am letting it develop,” Griffin said. “If I get into an 0-2, 1-2 situation and I want to go for a kill count, and go for a swing and miss, I will. As soon as I get to even or behind, though, I am not really going for a punchout. I don’t want those free passes.”

On Saturday against the Baltimore Orioles, Griffin threw 112 pitches, allowing one unearned run on three hits and two walks while matching his career high with nine strikeouts. He didn’t factor into the decision as Washington earned a 4-3, 10-inning victory.

Griffin went 2-0 with a 1.15 ERA in five June starts. His only career start against the Pirates came on the road on April 16, a no-decision in which he gave up four runs on eight hits with one walk and seven strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings.

Nationals manager Blake Butera has quickly developed belief in Griffin.

“I appreciate every time he’s on the mound,” Butera said. “We all have a ton of confidence in Foster. He pitches his tail off for us and leaves it all out there every single time.”

Washington had Thursday off after winning two of three games at Boston. The Nationals cruised to a 10-2 victory over the Red Sox on Wednesday behind James Wood’s 22nd home run, a three-run shot in the seventh. Andres Chaparro added a two-run bomb and Nasim Nunez hit a solo shot, the first homers of the season for both players.

The Pirates are set to counter with right-hander Mitch Keller (6-5, 4.87 ERA). After going 0-3 with an 8.25 ERA in his previous five starts, Keller earned his lone win of June on Sunday, a 9-4 home decision against the Cincinnati Reds. He allowed five hits and four runs (three earned) with one walk and four strikeouts.

Keller made his second straight six-inning start, and he feels things are pointed in the right direction.

“I’m starting to feel like I am getting in a little more of a rhythm,” Keller said. “Obviously, there’s still a lot more that I can clean up and just execute a little better.”

In eight career starts against Washington, Keller is 1-4 with a 5.31 ERA. He lost 5-4 to the Nationals on April 14 in Pittsburgh after yielding five runs on six hits and four walks with three strikeouts in four innings.

The Pirates’ offense is trending in the right direction. Rookie right fielder Esmerlyn Valdez continues to establish his place in the batting order.

Pittsburgh split a four-game road series against the Philadelphia Phillies this week, and Valdez was 2-for-4 with a run and three RBIs in a 6-1 win on Thursday.

Valdez homered in four consecutive games — including the series opener against the Phillies on Monday after going deep in each game of Pittsburgh’s previous three-game set against the Reds — a stretch that has highlighted his impressive start in the majors. Since his big league debut on May 22, Valdez has a .316 batting average, six homers and 15 RBIs in 19 games.

“The staff plays a big role,” Valdez said. “Even when you fail, they are right by your side. They bring the energy and give you the information you need to succeed.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Nationals #Foster #Griffin #aims #continue #success #Pirates

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